How to Correctly Merge Onto Highway, Interstate, Motorway
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- Опубликовано: 16 июн 2017
- Learn how to merge correctly onto the highway, motorway or interstate. And how to help other merge when you're on the highway - watch the video. SUBSCRIBE TODAY! ► / smartdrivetest
NEVER, EVER, EVER, EVERY STOP ON AN ON-RAMP OR ACCELERATION LANE
The only exception to that rule is if traffic is stopped on the highway.
When merging onto a freeway, highway, intestate or motorway, always get your vehicle up to the speed of the flow of traffic and merge.
COMMUNICATION YOUR INTENTION EARLY
And the key to a successful merge is to signal early to communicate your intentions and give other traffic ample notice.
SOCIAL DRIVING - IT'S A TEAM EVENT
For drivers already on the highway, they can--if possible--either merge and move over to allow space for the merging vehicle.
Or the driver could simply let off the throttle or cancel the cruise control and decelerate slightly.
The speed differential between the accelerating and decelerating vehicle will often create a sufficient gap for the merging vehicle.
Merging onto a highway or freeway is a team event. All drivers must participate to make it a seamless manoeuvre.
Good luck on your road test!
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Хобби
This video needs to go viral. Everyday I see people doing things they shouldn't when merging on.
Hi fixedgearforlife - Thank you for your comment. And if you could help with the video going viral, I'd be eternally grateful. And yes, there seems to be quite a bit of trepidation about merging. If there is anything further we can do, drop us a note. Always happy to help. All the best, Cheers Rick
I watched your vids and i passed my road test 2 days ago!!!! thank you so much sir for the tips and effort put into the vids!!! I highly appreciate it!!!
Hi Nargis Chogle - that is a awesome news. Thank you for letting us know. And you are most welcome my friend. I'm sure you had a big celebration, and it is well deserved. If there is anything further we can do, drop us a note. Always happy to help. All the best with your newly earned freedom. All the best, Cheers Rick
I actually just had burger king as a lunch treat a couple hours later, thats all! My test only took about 15 minutes but I am not complaining lol
Burger King LOL - that is too funny!! Some times, after doing all the work to get to the test, the test itself is anti-climatic. I've had that happen. But you did great, and now you have freedom. And Burger King it is - did you go through the drive thru? All the best, Cheers Rick
lol I actually didn't.. To be honest, I was physically and mentally stressed when I finished since I had to wait for a good hour till the instructor came in the car. Even if the session was short, I felt like it was sooooo nerve-wracking for that it felt longer!
Hi there - the "nerves part" and the waiting before any test are often the hardest aspect of the test. One of my favourite quotes by Mark Twain, "I've live through some terrible things in my life....some of them actually happened!! But it is that nerve racking part that adds to our being and makes us better. All the best, Cheers Rick
Thank you for your effort to make videos to help people like me who wants to pass the driving test. I passed my driving test earlier.
To you who are going to have their driving test soon, it’s normal to get nervous but know that u got this. Just feel confident, tell yourself “this is my last chance, there is no next time”. Move your head as u scan and shoulder check and of course pray.
Hi therie 0911- that is a awesome news. Thank you for letting us know, and for your encouragement to other smart drivers. I'm sure you had a big celebration, and it is well deserved. If there is anything further we can do, drop us a note. Always happy to help. Enjoy your newly earned freedom. All the best, Cheers Rick
Please! Do not go 40 miles per hour (65km/h) on the acceleration lane. This is a major hazard. Trucks are an exception. If you do not feel comfortable putting the pedal to the floor then please take a different highway. I can not tell you how many times I've almost rear-ended someone while we were on the acceleration lane because they are not accelerating fast enough. It makes it a challenge for all involved especially the people who are already on the highway. I recommend you Practice merging on a highway with lower speeds first before you try the faster highways. I've been driving for almost 4 years now. I really enjoy these videos. They help me improve my driving skills. I'm always looking to improve my skills. I can't thank you! enough!
Hi jacobfrazier1 - apologies for the late response, and thank you for your comment. Yes, I agree that if drivers are not accelerating to the speed of the flow of traffic when on the acceleration lane, it puts all drivers at risk. However, there is a lot of trepidation when it comes to merging. Perhaps these video will move to alleviate some of the challenges new drivers are having. If there is anything further we can do, drop us a note. Always happy to help. All the best, Cheers Rick
Nothing upsets me more than this. It makes merging much more difficult and dangerous. It's a case of being too cautious. Being too cautious is dangerous. Movements need to be deliberate
ABCDE
I watched most of your videos and practiced for months and I just passed my test today! Thank you so much you’re very helpful and clear with explaining. Couldn’t of done it without ya!
Hi Jade Thibodeau - that is simply AWESOME news! Would you stop over at Smart Drive Test, register your success and enter the draw for the $100 Fuel Card - www.smartdrivetest.com/contact/donation
Thank you for letting us know, and you are most welcome. We're happy to hear we could help out. I'm sure you are having a huge celebration, and it is well deserved owing to your study & practice. All the best, Cheers Rick 🏎
PS - where did you go on your first solo trip to celebrate?
I'm so glad your on here, I passed my road test May 23rd in Albany, NY and I couldn't have done it without these videos! and as a new driver your advice Is always straight to the point and with conviction, and that's what's needed! I still watch the videos to gain extra confidence while driving! Thank you so much!
i do tooooo!!!!!
Hi Najia Spencer - that is a awesome news. Thank you for letting us know. I'm sure you have had a big celebration, and it is well deserved. If there is anything further we can do, drop us a note. Always happy to help. All the best with your newly earned freedom down there in Albany, NY. I've been to Albany a number of times during my years as a truck driver. All the best, Cheers Rick
I so happy for Rick smart drivers I ready for driving, I can drive but my accident in the car made me nervous and shake I don't like driving fast, I passed the test, but I have to pass the road test
I'm learning how to drive within 1 month, and thank goodness for your videos. You are a better teacher than the actual driving school teachers in the car with me.
Hi Gabriella - thank you for your flattering comment. If there’s anything further we can do drop us a note. Always happy to help. All the best with your learning. Cheers Rick
Thank-you so much for your videos, it's helped me more than I can say as a newer driver. I appreciate every video you post, a lot of us aren't taught half of these rules and need guidance. So thank-you again.
Dr. Rick August:
Many salutations! Driving out on the highway like you were doing in this video looks like a lot of fun; if my economy were not whimpering in pain right now, I would go rent a vehicle and join in the fun. I got hit with a $111 electric bill this month (September 2019); still, I am confident that my fortunes will be better next month.
While I am waiting, I shall share some of my experiences. When I was heading back home from prosecuting a DoorDash delivery session in Kerrville, IH-10 was quite different at night than during the day and I at first wondered if I had accidently turned west instead of east because the San Antonio radio station Magic 105.3 was not clearly audible when I was in Kerrville. As I drove further east, the aforementioned radio station came in with greater volume and clarity which lifted my spirits quite a lot.
This memory is also why I reversed course back to San Antonio when my rental car reported a tire pressurization diagnostic fault during my second trip to Kerrville which ultimately led to that tire blowing out on me to the tune of $46 to have the tire replaced; even though I could then set course toward Kerrville after having the tire replaced, I was so freaked out by the experience that I stayed home for the rest of that day. Why would the right rear tire develop this fault in spite of me driving the car forward most of the time? Would one of the front tires not be the first to give way? What is to say that one of the three other tires would not blow out on me after I had the right rear tire replaced? Such worries played out very heavily in my mind, Dr. August . . . especially since I got that tire pressurization diagnostic fault for the same tire while I was prosecuting a DoorDash delivery session in Pleasanton; fortunately, re-pressurizing the tire did the trick.
But back to my original point. Driving on IH-37 at night north from Pleasanton was only slightly less scary because I had Magic 105.3 coming in loud and clear which is a sign of my proximity to San Antonio; still, I really had to hustle through Poteet to Jourdanton or I would have lost that DoorDash delivery session. I remember my rental car advising me to consider taking a break during these two road trips I conducted; still, what if there is nowhere to heed that counsel? What if the vehicle makes this choice for me and how can I diminish this likelihood, Dr. August?
Hi Damon Mason - Apologies for the late response. Thank you for your question. The problem--most likely--is a wheel alignment problem my friend. Or there could be a problem with the tire itself. All the best, Cheers Rick
Your saveing lives with your videos really do appreciate you. Thank you
Hi Lightworker Healer - And you are most welcome. We're happy to hear we could help out. If there is anything further we can do, drop us a note. Always happy to help. All the best, Cheers Rick
Again, a very informative video for those of us with decades of driving. Always good to have a refresher. Dragging a holiday trailer can be a challenge to get up to highway speed but more often than not, drivers are very accommodating. Must confess to going significantly over limit a few times to merge as in Alberta, tail gating is the norm and there is nowhere to go if no one will back off. Have never had occasion to stop but have introduced myself to the shoulder once or twice. Again, tailgating and no one can/will move out of the way.
Which brings me to another couple of points. Would love the police to focus a bit more on tail gaters and less on speeders, within reason of course. Two second + rule and all for distance. Would be thrilled to have drivers take a road test upon renewal or at the least, the written test. We all pick up some bad habits over the years and need a reminder from time to time. Again, thanks for the series.
Hi Brent Scott - Apologies for the late response. Thank you for your comment. And you are most welcome. And yes, I too believe that tailgaters are more dangerous than those that are speeding. One other technique that I might suggest for getting out on the acceleration lane with a trailer is to activate your 4-way flashers to indicate to other traffic that you are going slower. This is a technique that I used in the transport-truck. The problem with license renewals and refreshers is that the licensing authorities simply don't have the personnel to conduct these tests. If there is anything further we can do, drop us a note. Always happy to help. All the best, Cheers Rick
Smart Drive Test Great suggestion about the 4 ways. Will remember that in the future. Thanks again.
Hi Brent Scott - you are most welcome my friend. All the best, Cheers Rick
No question at all,just wanted to tell you that you’re very knowledgeable and you’re the best! Thank you for your amazing videos!!!
Hi Sarah K - And you are most welcome. We're happy to hear we could help out. If there is anything further we can do, drop us a note. Always happy to help. All the best, Cheers Rick
Epic icing to the cake!: "I didn't see the emergency vehicle so..." Helps us be more alert for sirens and flashing lights. Thank you, Rick. :)
Hi Karan Bantawa - you are most welcome my friend. All the best, Cheers Rick
i have watched all your videos and i have passed my driving test! thank you so much you were very helpful!
Hi greg - that is a awesome news. Thank you for letting us know, and for watching ALL the videos. ;0) I'm sure you had a big celebration, and it is well deserved. If there is anything further we can do, drop us a note. Always happy to help. Enjoy your newly earned freedom. All the best, Cheers Rick
Thaaaaank yoouu!!! You demonstrated and explained things extremely well!!
Hi Jessey Boe - Apologies for the late response. Thank you for your comment. And you are most welcome. If there is anything further we can do, drop us a note. Always happy to help. All the best, Cheers Rick
Thanks very much! I have a drive today that's been stressing me out about a freeway. Your video significantly helps and relieves me. Looking forward to exploring more of your videos!
Hi XenoPop - . Thank you for your comment. And you are most welcome. How did the drive go? If there is anything further we can do, drop us a note. Always happy to help. All the best, Cheers Rick
It went amazing actually! The only thing I could've probably done better is lane changing while maintaining the speed on the freeway. Very important. Thanks for asking!
Hi XenoPop - that is a awesome news. Thank you for letting us know. And the thing about driving is there's always something to work on and improve. I'm sure you had a big celebration, and it is well deserved. If there is anything further we can do, drop us a note. Always happy to help. All the best with your newly earned freedom. All the best, Cheers Rick
Thank you, Rick. This question has bugged me for years and I’m glad that I’ve got my answer
Hi kevin dawes - you are most welcome my friend. Drop us a note if we can help further my friend. All the best, Cheers Rick
Amazing help you offer, thank you so much for your wonderful videos!😀👍👏🙆♀️
Hi Danielle Lahdenranta - Thank you for your comment. And you are most welcome. We're happy to hear we could help out. If there is anything further we can do, drop us a note. Always happy to help. All the best, Cheers Rick
Thanks for the lesson
Hi Jose Calixte - Thank you for your comment. And you are most welcome. We're happy to hear we could help out. If there is anything further we can do, drop us a note. Always happy to help. All the best, Cheers Rick
Mr Rick much respect ✊ for ur creativity to us learners worldwide, watching straight way Uganda 🇺🇬 east Africa
Hi MUGASHA GODEN - thank you for your kind words. We're happy to hear we could help out. If there is anything further we can do, drop us a note. Always happy to help. All the best, Cheers Rick
@@smartdrivetest I hv a problem in steering and installing, balancing cultch and gas
Teacher ur ever the best love ❤️ from Uganda 🇺🇬 east Africa
Hi MUGASHA GODEN - Glad to help. Drop us a note if we can help further my friend. All the best, Cheers Rick
hi rick! thanks so much for your videos they’ve helped me so much. i take my road test in two days. so my issue is with merging is when i do shoulder checks i don’t know exactly where to look and when i do the shoulder check i love the steering wheel in the opposite direction of where i’m looking. any tips?
Thanks for the tips that was awesome
Happy to help! Drop us a note if we can help further. Cheers Rick
Very helpful tip,thank you
Hi Hùng Kiệt - Thank you for your comment. And you are most welcome. If there is anything further we can do, drop us a note. Always happy to help. All the best, Cheers Rick
Thank you! Very useful and new information for me😊
Hi Ilham Berjaoui - Thank you for your comment. And you are most welcome. If there is anything further we can do, drop us a note. Always happy to help. All the best, Cheers Rick
So my question is: what happens in those situations that the highway is busy and there are no gaps big enough for you to merge and nobody is letting you in and you are coming to the end of the lane? I've had this happen several times now and it's super frustrating. Too many people on the roads are out for themselves and don't want to let people in.
Rick, thanks for all the great work you do! I always enjoy your videos and I find them very helpful to new and experienced drivers alike. I am subscribed and have recommended your channel to others. However, as a professional motorcoach driver in the US with over 13 years of experience, I just cannot agree with this. I don't think it makes any sense for a driver who is already on the highway traveling at a constant rate of speed to adjust their speed to accommodate someone entering into that driver's lane. I feel it is safer and far more courteous if the driver doing the merging decreases their speed to accommodate the drivers they are encroaching upon. If this means slowing down by letting off the gas, hitting the brakes, or in extreme cases, even stopping at the yield sign, so be it. If someone rear-ends them, that individual is a poor driver. You never hit a car from behind. Unexpected behaviors happen all the time, and we should be prepared for them. The purpose of yield signs is to inform the merging drivers that they have to yield to traffic already on the roadway. The sings do not say merge; but rather they indicate the need to yield. Additionally, I don't like the idea of brisk acceleration. As a motorcoach driver, I am always concerned with passenger comfort and I prefer to slowly enter the roadway when safe to do so rather than come down guns blazing and give a jerky and uncomfortable ride. Likewise, once I have entered the roadway, I should do my very best to maintain an even speed and ride, and not be constantly slowing down and speeding up to accommodate merging drivers who should be yielding to me as they are entering my lane of traffic. Not trying to start a war. Again, thank you for all your work. I realize it is a difference of opinion, but I just can't support aggressive behavior on the road, and I feel this style of merging is a form of aggressive driving. Thanks again and take care!
Hi Rick thank you for creating this wonderful video and teaching me how to drive safely and teaching me how to merge safely. What do you when there is a stop sign on the merging lane getting on highway which is causing a lot of accident?
Hi Katie Swan - Thank you for your question. Yes, those goofy stop signs. Not really sure what to do about those. If you don't have a license, then I would stop for the purposes of a road test. However, after you get your license, know that it's just telling you to give way to the traffic on the road. All the best, Cheers Rick
tank you. really helpful
Hi Mu Kunda - Thank you for your comment. And you are most welcome. We're happy to hear we could help out. If there is anything further we can do, drop us a note. Always happy to help. All the best, Cheers Rick
You say it's a "team event"--but sometimes other drivers think you're the opposing team! Others are distracted, and then there's semi trucks which, no matter how nice the driver, have limited ability to slow down, accelerate, or move over to help you.
I agree that "Plan A" should be to merge seamlessly at speed, but conditions sometimes make that difficult and possibly unsafe--how should we prepare for a "Plan B" if things start to go wrong? Maybe no one's leaving a gap for you, or maybe a semi's coming up on your left that you can't see behind... suddenly you're at the end of the merging lane, now going at highway speed, with a line of vehicles beside you and only shoulder ahead...
In my state's laws, drivers on the highway have the right of way, and the merging driver is assumed at fault for any collision that occurs. Unfortunately some take this to mean that they never have to slow down or change lanes for a merging car... they'd consider the merge at 5:22 to be "cutting them off" and get angry/aggressive. (Rear ends, on the other hand, are legally the fault of the person hitting from behind, although of course we shouldn't rely on right of ways to keep us safe).
Hi R.D. Dragon - thank you for your insightful comment. I've been in cars with drivers that have been in the outside lane abreast another vehicle with a car merging onto the freeway. At times, I asked them what they were doing because I could clearly see the car merging. I politely asked them what they were doing, to which they would reply, "I have the right of way." I answered, "well, you can be right, or you can be dead right!" And as I tell people, most of the time it doesn't take any time out of your day to help or be nice to other drivers on the roadway. And finally, no one wins in a car crash, but if when people are nice to other people everyone has an awesome day. And you're right, "some" other drivers think they're the opposing team, but I think most are doing the best they can. And big trucks are more nimble than people are led to believe; as well, the driver is sitting up higher so they can see better and often times they are working to move over long before the car is even on the acceleration lane. Professional drivers know that to attain more miles in a day is to attain a higher average speed - and that means keeping the truck or bus going at a constant speed. As drivers, we always have to be prepared that traffic situations are not going to be favourable; however, in my experience as a professional driver driving in different countries, getting up to speed to merge onto the highway is the proper procedure. All the best, Cheers Rick
ive experiacned drivers not giving me a gap before too and i get scared how do i handle this if i keep accelerating i could die
Yes those semi trucks 😒 my husband drives semis but he’s very aware and thoughtful of other drivers. I had a scary experience once like this where the semi didn’t move so I stopped the car if not I would’ve had an accident because of the dumb semi driver that day.
The guy at 5:22 was not in an acceleration lane, either. He had a yield sign. 7:30 shows what I would consider a proper acceleration lane.
Or even if traffic is busy can’t get to the other lane and you have some ass inches on you bumper and you can’t slow down the. What that would be a great question to answer as well
Hey Rick, bit of a scare today. I was driving in the right lane at 110 which was admittedly too fast. I could see that cars were up ahead merging, I let go of the throttle as you suggested but one vehicle merged on, and our speed differential was too high, I doubt he merged at 100 but I can't be certain. I ended up having to blindly enter the left lane and quickly veer back to the right lane a definite near miss. Is avoiding this simply a matter of going less fast. I'll do my best to stay in the left lane at this point as well. I don't want to say its shaken me up, but it definitely puts driving on the highway up for reevalution on the list of things that seem like a good idea.
Hi jooka24 - Thank you for your comment. And we're happy to hear that you're alright. You were lucky my friend, and it is good that you took a driving lesson away from this near-miss. You're speed was not the issue, rather, your mistake was that you assumed that the other driver wasn't going to pull out in front of you. As you said, best to move over well before the acceleration lane to avoid conflict. This video too may help: ruclips.net/video/KnIcTIrUEG4/видео.html&index=5&list=PL0x-bChcUvwFZC-_2LIavmqjUMNgj_jpq The other suggestion I have for you is to enrol in my defensive driving course because I know it can keep you safe and significantly reduce the chances of being involved in a crash: www.smartdrivetest.com/defensive-driving-course If there is anything further we can do, drop us a note. Always happy to help. All the best, Cheers Rick
WE LOVE YOU!!! You're the best!
+Tee Tee - thank you so much for your flattering words. Drop us a note if there's anything we can do. Always happy to help. Cheers Rick
Thanks to you yesterday i made my very first trip alone for 45 minutes to DFW airport to pick up my husband. But before I left, I watched a couple of your videos for encouragement and reassurance. I got there 15 minutes early, safe and confidant. THNK YOU SO MUCH!!! Your videos are easy to follow and your personality is very captivating. Keep up the great work.
+Tee Tee that is a magic story! Thank you so much. All the best, cheers Rick
Hey Rick... In acceleration lane should i wait till im close to the end to move? Or is it okey to move to the left once i enter or in the middle of the acceleration lane... ?
"Do not stop on the acceleration lane!" - Susan said, "Thank you Rick!"
Hey Tim - Tell Susan she is most welcome. Can't wait to see you guys when I come down on the weekend. All the best, Cheers Rick Good Bless
I love your channel, I started driving May this year, and with this in combination with my instructor has helped a lot, but I find my main weakness is parking in reverse, and reverse driving in general, its hard for me to find the lines to back into a space, any tips?
Hi Karl Beerman - Thank you for your comment. And you are most welcome. I believe this is the video which you seek: ruclips.net/video/qn1oIDW4rH0/видео.html&list=PL0x-bChcUvwFy0JlpppIZ7Un8S1lv3oWq&index=4 Also, I recommend to students after they've been driving for a bit is to revisit the fundamentals. Have a look at the exercises in this video: ruclips.net/video/dJpMKkwEhxI/видео.html&index=4&list=PL0x-bChcUvwENfxb3Gsaj4ZNLWleZCNzG If there is anything further we can do, drop us a note. Always happy to help. All the best, Cheers Rick
Thanks Rick.
Looks like Walter White clases. Nice 🙂👍
Has been helping me a lot! Even after getting my Driver's.
Hi Kennard Vandergrift - Always happy to help. All the best, Cheers Rick
I have been taking lessons and I have my N road test on thursday. In kamloops the N road test requires merging onto a street at around 60km per hour with a fairly short acceleration lane. I know from my lessons that merging is one of my weak points. Especially in heavy traffic I have trouble identifying the correct spot to merge into.
Very helpful
Hi trudie chinogara - Thank you for your comment. And you are most welcome. We're happy to hear we could help out. If there is anything further we can do, drop us a note. Always happy to help. All the best, Cheers Rick
Well done Sir 🌺🍁🌹
Hi Samuel Kingston - Thank you for your comment. And you are most welcome.
All the best, Cheers Rick
Hi Rick I will be doing my road test. In ontario Canada, I just wanted to know strategies to use when booking a road test. Because winter season has started. I have never driven in snow
Hi ytjhhh - Thank you for your comment. And here is the playlist of videos that will help you with the snow and taking your road test in the snow: ruclips.net/p/PL0x-bChcUvwGXH4VbLmO0gJJpeIqLrs2T And have a look at this video too: ruclips.net/video/BPpRKeheX00/видео.html If there is anything further we can do, drop us a note. Always happy to help. All the best, Cheers Rick
It’s almost as if he doesn’t want me to stop in the acceleration lane
The kids nowadays like the rap music with the hippin and the hoppin and the bippin and the boppin and they dont know what the JAZZ is all about.
@@kylelikeskjvbible ???
Some yahoo on another page said the merging traffic should stop at the end of the merging lane if they can’t get into the flow of traffic! Merging traffic has the right of way. Why? Because their lane is ending. In Illinois I find drivers to be very polite with this rule.
I just subscribed and watched this first video. (I can't help but notice that your windshield has a long crack from the right side. Is that safe to drive, given that modern cars' windshields are integral to the safety of the vehicle ? ) I did have the wrong impression of the merge lane: I treated that broken white line as kosher and you should not cross into traffic until you have a safe opening in the flow. Drivers on the h/way nearside lane may not be able to safely allow you in. I agree you shouldn't stop, but some of these acceleration lanes are pretty short. I also encounter lots of drivers who cut into the traffic too quickly before they even get up to speed. Sorry for the lengthy first comment: I am a motorcycle rider too and always looking for safe driving tips. Great place to hang out ! Thanks.
Hi Jay Damhar - Thank you for your comment. And welcome to the smart driver community. Yes, the onus of responsibility for merging is on the merging driver - no doubt. And yes, some of the acceleration lanes are short, but in combination with the on-ramp there is often enough space if drivers put the "pedal to the metal"; although as you and I know, that doesn't always happen. If there is anything further we can do, drop us a note. Always happy to help. We look forward to sharing thinking on driving. All the best, Cheers Rick
Is there a speed limit when we just on the ramp and before the "Merge" sign?
In the city ,the speed limit is 50km/h,the highway speed limit is 80km/h.
When we want to merge on left lane at intersection do I need to do shoulder check for the same ??? Please reply
Thank you my test is on March 11
Waiting for your reply
I want to go on a trip to a major city in about a month but I've never driven on the highway and I'm terrified of merging... is there any personal advice you could give me? I've been driving for a few years but it always gives me anxiety, even on the surface streets. People in my area tend to try to block others from getting over when they put their blinker on. I'm on the East coast.
Hi WeFoundAtlantis - Apologies for the late response. Thank you for your comment and query. There are a couple of videos that I would suggest: ruclips.net/video/Ju3jSCTEBsE/видео.html and this on reducing fear and anxiety: ruclips.net/video/GRX7iW4Jqcs/видео.html As well, ensure that you communicate early - that way other drivers are more likely to help you out. If there is anything further we can do, drop us a note. Always happy to help. All the best, Cheers Rick
imnotgrandpa that’s masshole shit
You probably will not see my comment, but I literally been watching your videos for 3 weeks straight every night ! My road test is July 27th and I live in NYC so I am nervous !!! Can you please do a video on how to make right turns, even when it's a parked car on the corner ? My left turns are perfect but my right turns needs help! You helped me with everything else, please do a video of turning.
Hey Rick got a question for you. I have my permit and have been driving on the major highways. I feel that my biggest weakness will be judging gap when trying to merge and judging how close or far away people are from my car with my mirrors. Is there anything you can tell me about how to judge distance and how to set my mirrors so I feel safe on the highway? I feel safe once I'm already on it, it's just merging I'm kind of weary over. Any words help! Thanks!
Also, I have a hard time "shoulder checking" I tend to rely on my mirrors a lot when merging. Should I be doing that? LOL
Thanks for the Tips and Trick on this. Yesterday My Driving School Teacher Take me on that. I got scared about that. Thanks a lot.
Hi Mike - so great to hear from you. How are the lessons going my friend? I'm so glad to hear that you're persevering -that is awesome. Yes, the first few times you merge onto a freeway or interstate, it can be daunting. The key is to signal early and look down the road as far as possible. And shoulder check lots to find your gap. And there is some trust too...trust that if you communicate your intentions, the other vehicles will help you get out onto the highway. All the best, Cheers Rick
my lesson is doing ok. I need more lessons to do but I have some people pull the front of me When I am driving a lot and I have trouble with Who Goes First at Right of Way Area at Stop Sign. And Speed up as well.
Thanks
Hi Mohamed Salah - thank you for your comment and you are welcome. If there is anything further we can do, drop us a note. Always happy to help. All the best, Cheers Rick
Hey Rick, Love the channel! Keep up the great work!
I agree that we should not stop on an acceleration lane, however where I live I noticed that not all acceleration lanes seem to be long enough so that you can get up to the speed of traffic. As a result, you have to merge slower than you would like to. In addition, sometimes other drivers don't seem to want to help you out by either slowing down or moving over to the left lane. As a result, you have no choice but to slow down in these circumstances. I know the most important thing is to be safe :). I'd like to what your thoughts are when you experience these scenarios?
Hi Jeffrey - Thank you for your comment and words of encouragement - you are most welcome. I find when merging onto a freeway if you communicate early, most drivers will help you out. And yes--as you stated--some times you have to be prepared that other traffic fails to help you out for whatever reason. But in my experience, this situation is the exception and not the rule. In my experience, signalling early is key. If there is anything further we can do, drop us a note. Always happy to help. All the best, Cheers Rick
Thanks for the reply! I'm not sure if you had done a video about the 3 second rule, but it definitely has helped me out. Today I was driving along a road and the car driving in front of me was involved in an accident. I was able to avoid being a part of the accident because I was not tailgating and I gave my self 3-4 seconds of cushion. Perhaps you can do a video on the importance of the 3 second rule :) Thanks for all that you do.
Hi Jeffrey - yes, following distance is imperative to safe driving. You are "spot on" when you talk about following distance and the 3 second following distance in passenger vehicles. It is more important as you drive bigger and bigger vehicles. Thanks for the informative story. All the best, Cheers Rick
when de-accelerating do you simply take your foot of the gas, or once foot of gas you lightly press break? Thanks in advance
Hi H.M M - Thank you for your comment. And yes, deceleration is just taking your foot off the accelerator. If there is anything further we can do, drop us a note. Always happy to help. All the best, Cheers Rick
Yes I agree
Sir,, I am from Toronto and my "G" road test will be in the next few weeks,,, there is 400 series highway where I suppose to drive. On that highway construction work is going on and have orange braking lines both ways. The problem is " while merging to the highway there is no speed limited posted. My question is " what speed limit I should maintain (while merging and on a highway)80 km/h (speed while construction on the highway) or 100 km/h (regular speed on the highway). Thanks
Hi dev and u - Thank you for your comment and query. And when you don't know the speed limit outside the city, it is 80km/h unless otherwise posted. It sounds like you've done it already, but I would counsel you to go back to the construction area and double check that there aren't any speed signs. Also, have a look at this video: ruclips.net/video/XgxRgpBjSYU/видео.html&index=7&list=PL0x-bChcUvwE_rlzVW9kuEblcjDwxCaFj If there is anything further we can do, drop us a note. Always happy to help. All the best, Cheers Rick
Great Videos. I have a question. In which state are you driving? and why are the speed signs in Kmph as opposed to Mph? Thanks in advance!
Hi Karthikeya Darivemula - thank you for your comment. Most of the videos on the channel are filmed in Canada, the the kph signs. Still, most of the information is relevant to the United States and other places in the world. If there is anything further we can do, drop us a note. Always happy to help. All the best, Cheers Rick
I’ve watch most of your videos and I pass first try greetings from jamaica
Hi Feldon Adams - that is a awesome news. Thank you for letting us know, and you are most welcome. I'm sure you are having/or had a huge celebration, and it is well deserved owing to your study & practice. If there is anything further we can do, drop us a note. Always happy to help. All the best, Cheers Rick 🏎 PS - where in the world did you pass your test and are you planning any road trips to celebrate?
Would you stop over at the Smart Drive Test and register your success with our 100K campaign - www.smartdrivetest.com/contact/donation
@@smartdrivetest jamaica in the Caribbean
Hi Feldon Adams - Thank you for your reply. A road trip around the island would be great - simply spectacular. If we could ask a favour--if you haven't done so already--and get you to register your success with the 100K campaign, that would be awesome: www.smartdrivetest.com/contact/donation We've also added you to the Map of SUCCESS my friend: www.smartdrivetest.com/successful-smart-drivers All the best, Cheers Rick
Where were you? That was some beautiful scenery!
HI Candis Killebrew - I'm in Vernon, British Columbia, Canada. It's about 4 hours northeast of Vancouver. All the best, Cheers Rick
thanks for the wonderful video. by the way, what if there is a little space gap in the road for merging into the main highway, do we really need to STOP before hitting the end lane as incoming vehicles are coming from the main road still.
Hi Jozh Zmith - Thank you for your comment and your compliment. Why I mention that you should stay on the acceleration lane to the end is to get the vehicle up to speed. It is safer to merge onto the highway if you are as close as possible to the speed of the traffic on the main road. If there is anything further we can do, drop us a note. Always happy to help. All the best, Cheers Rick
thanks ! so the answer is NO , no need to STOP as I understand that we need to match the speed of other vehicles. wondering if there is NO chance at all..thanks Rick.
Hallo my Smart Driver. Did my road test yesterday didnt pass. Reason i took long time to clear at a Stop Sign. Secondly i had the right of way on the right turn at a 7okm lane but i also delayed in merging. Going to re do the road test after a week. Advise me please. Livingstone
Hi Rick. What about an on-ramp with yield sign into the highway
I wish more people in America would watch this video. I agree here in America I try to get up to speed on the on ramp(acceleration lane) well people in front of me put alone doing 20mph when the high way speed is 70mph. or how about people hogging the left lane(which is are passing lane. ) we start teaching at 15, then at 16 is when people can take the test and get there license. then never tested again, just renewals of drivers license which is reading a few lines to check eye site. I which there was every few years of testing people driving skills.
I had a very bad experience merging on. It's an area where you don't have too much time to merge and traffic is partly hidden due to a curve/turn around the merging area, plus concrete walls. When i got to speed of traffic and was going to merge, i noticed the car on the highway merge lane was just too close, so I decided to deaccelerate just a bit and go after him, but then he suddenly decided to break abruptly and started honking at me, hearing all these other cars screeching with breaks too..I then accelerated and merged..then he started passing me and showing me the finger.. I'm a new driver but I knew he was in the wrong, but I've realized not every driver is going to be polite and kind and do team work with you on merging. That person was an SOB. I will never merge in that area again. People drive up too close and don't give mergers enough safe space to merge in. I'm sorry but I'm not Mario Andretti just yet....sqeezing into a space going 100km/hr... I wanted to MERGE, not SQUEEZE IN.
Hi Sylva - great story - thanks for sharing. Yes, when you're a new driver, merging onto a freeway can be a daunting task. And yes, some times I find that other do not help out. I have found however, that other drivers are more apt to help out if you signal your intention to merge early. The flashing light gets their attention. My goal is to have enough people watch the video and then we can have the ideal of everyone working together. But I've been accused of being a dreamer a time or two. 😀 If there is anything further we can do, drop us a note. Always happy to help. All the best, Cheers Rick
Thank you Rick for your reply back! I completely agree with the signaling early, which I did. That is why i was so confused why that car was so close to me from behind, hence, me slowing down a little, thinking they were not letting me in. It was just too close for comfort going 100km/hr. I think some drivers like risky driving, and assume others are the same type of drivers....it was just a very close call and scared me enough to not want to take that route ever again.
Thank you again Rick! I'll keep watching and studying your videos!
S
Hi Sylva - thanks for your comment. You're going to be great. We all have, unfortunately, those close calls that scare the living daylights out of us. And as smart drivers we learn from those and work to improve. You've got a great attitude. All the best, Cheers Rick
Thank you for that Rick! You just gave me hope.
Cheers!
Can you do a video about cruise control?
You found it! 🖖
Hello Rick I have moved now and it was a very fun long drive
Fun fact I went to LA and the highways are so weird there's a red that turns green when you can go on the acceleration lane I ran it the first time because I didn't understand did you know that? It's like on every highway
Hi Big$MoneyBoss - It is awesome to hear that you are having fun with you license - driving is magic. And thank you for that information about LA - I'm going to do a follow-up and include that information - you don't have any dashcam footage by chance - or any other smart drivers that might be reading this comment? All the best, Cheers Rick
No dashcam footage :( I was thinking of getting one but don't want to record all my conversations
Some highways have that and utilize it during the busy hours. it helps with the flow of traffic. And in LA, you need that ALL the time. I live in PA and there's one on I-476.
I have a scenario. What it you can’t merge over because traffic is bumper to bumper going highway speeds. I know you can’t stop, but do you continue regular speed in the shoulder until you can finally merge over?
I have a fear of driving on the interstate because of this scenario. I will go the long route or backroads to avoid merging on the interstate. I do just fine on country highways and exit ramps.
, but the crazy traffic on the interstate makes me so nervous. Thanks.
Hi Trevor Brown - Thank you for your query. Signal and keep your signal on. And move your vehicle over to the left side of the lane. These techniques on your part will get other drivers to open up a gap and let you merge over. If there is anything further we can do, drop us a note. Always happy to help. All the best, Cheers Rick
Try that during rush hour in Tampa, FL. Stop n go traffic!
Hi Candis Killebrew - Thank you for your comment and query. First, no one wins in a crash, so it doesn't really matter who's at fault. In other words, you can be right, or you can be "dead" right. Merging onto a freeway is a team event, and if you signal early, others--in most cases--are going to help you out. I know it can be a bit scary when you don't have a lot of experience, but you need to signal early, get out onto the acceleration lane, match the speed of the flow of traffic, and pick your spot. Don't get intimidated by other drivers. You need to hold your line. Have a look at this video too: --ruclips.net/video/KjjNTdXg3Bg/видео.html If there is anything further we can do, drop us a note. Always happy to help. All the best, Cheers Rick
Not sure how I got strike through...interesting! Cheers Rick
Your videos are great!
Right or dead right. WTF?
Bananas
I have a question:
What if I am too close when I am between two vehicles when I merge onto the acceleration lane?
Hey Rick. Thanks for your videos, they are amazing. Can you make more videos about driving in highways and the rules associated with driving in highways. I always get nervous while I drive at high speed (100-120kmph), you have any tips for me to get over this fear? Thanks in advance.
Hi Ashraf anwar hossain - thank you for your comment and compliment. I've had several requests from smart drivers about anxiety and nerves associated with driving. Alright, I will give that some thought and get a video done for you. Also, the highway driving video. So, those two videos have move to the top of the list. If there is anything further we can do, drop us a note. Always happy to help. All the best, Cheers Rick
parallel parking
rick could you please make a video on bends on highways it would help alot of people example is at 3:26 thanks
so what do you do if there is a yeild sign entering a expressway. we have a lot of those in NYC
Andre Johnson they're all effectively yield signs, i.e. You still technically can't run other vehicles off the road to enter the highway, except they aren't frequently posted, given it's fairly self explanitory.
Hi Andre: Thank you for your comment. As jfsa380 stated, even though most don't have 'YIELD' signs, they are all effectively a yield. I'll do a follow-up to the original video and talk about the 'YIELD' signs. My preliminary thinking is that the 'YIELD' signs are there to assign 'fault' in cases on crashes and insurance, but I'll confirm that and get back to you. If there is anything further we can do, drop us a note. Always happy to help. All the best, Cheers Rick
I need to learn how to change lane
Hi Marcia Brown - Apologies for the late response. Thank you for your comment. And have a look at this video: ruclips.net/video/xLQ8lkwvR5E/видео.html If there is anything further we can do, drop us a note. Always happy to help. All the best, Cheers Rick
Where is this filmed at !.?
Hi Roman Coleman - Thank you for your question. British Columbia, Canada. Why do you ask my friend. All the best, Cheers Rick
Here's my panic scenario: I'm merging onto a very crowed highway. I'm trying to guage how much time/space I have to merge into 60 mph traffic, when I see a 16-wheeler approaching, barreling toward me in the acceleration lane. He can't shift lanes, and he isn't slowing down to let me in. There are two cars behind me waiting to merge into traffic. I'm terrified the16-wheeler is going to hit me if I can't get up to speed fast enough. I hesitate, and this window of opportunity to merge into traffic goes by. The motorists waiting behind me start honking their horns. The one behind me actually PASSES ME to merge into traffic (and gives me a hand signal to emphasize his irritation). I don't want to be the hesitant "merge-er," but I also don't want to be killed. This is as much psychology as it is technique. Any advice? Please.
In that situation I would drive in brake down lane for just a few seconds if it were completely clear if the risk of doing that truly outweighed the risk of being hit
Never ever ever stop on an on ramp or acceleration lane though for sure. Hesitation really is the number one killer. Keep in mind too that the truck doesn't want to hit you either and can almost surely see you. This actually happened to me once time, I judged incorrectly and actually had to move into brakedown lane or he would have hit me for sure. I'm not sure what they expect the much smaller cars to do when they obviously cant slow down as quickly. It seems as though they want us to stop and wait at the end of the ramp
This sounds like me exactly😐
this is my nightmare too
But, yes, as said by @Emily Allen, it's okay to drive on the shoulder or breakdown lane for a little bit in order to merge.
Be sure to look far enough ahead as well. In that scenario, you may have been okay to slow down, but that takes a bit of practice and experience.
Should there be worst case scenario,should we need to brake slightly or a bit hard if we dont get gap or worst case scenario..brake hard due to unfavourable situation. Can we use the hazard lights instantly to warn driver behind of me just before braking hard or need to slow to due to extreme unpleasant situation. I agree with you 100% ,one due accelerate to highway speed ASAP.
Hi Fareeq Abel Hammed - Thank you for your comment and query. I've merged onto a freeway with every kind of vehicle - there should be no need for the brake. You should be controlling your approach to the gap with the throttle - even in congestion here, you can see that drivers are able to merge successfully onto the highway: ruclips.net/video/YwWd8fLvih0/видео.html In most cases, so long as you accelerate to highway speed and aim for the gap, you shouldn't have any issues. If there is anything further we can do, drop us a note. Always happy to help. All the best, Cheers Rick
People behind you should not be following so closely that they rear end you. The merging traffic MUST YIELD the right of way.
My driving instructor said I can't slow down if I see a semi while trying to get over. Semi truck seem hard to slow down.
Hi Jessica love - Apologies for the late response. Thank you for your comment. I don't know the exact scenario, but if you are merging out onto the roadway and truck is on the highway, it is best to "put the pedal to the metal"--accelerate hard--and get the vehicle up to speed to get in front of the truck. If that doesn't work, adjust your speed so that you can pull in behind the vehicle. If there is anything further we can do, drop us a note. Always happy to help. All the best, Cheers Rick
This might be a stupid question, but I like clarification. If there is a Yield sign (I'm guessing these AREN'T going to be posted in acceleration lanes), does that mean we can stop? I saw a lot of Yield signs for merging traffic in this video, but those were for really short-looking merging lanes. Am I correct in thinking those are not the same acceleration lanes you're addressing more specifically in this video?
Thanks for all your lessons. They're super helpful!
Hi Risa Fey - Apologies for the late response. Thank you for your comment and query. It is a good question. In a number of places, the yield sign is placed on the on-ramp to indicate that the onus of merging is on the merging vehicle. Never assume that the vehicles on the freeway are going to move over. Therefore, it is important that you find your space and adjust your speed so that you meet that space. If there is anything further we can do, drop us a note. Always happy to help. All the best, Cheers Rick
I don't know where you are, but in my neck of the woods, a yield sign means "be prepared to stop, if necessary." You don't need to stop if you can safely keep going. In other words, if there is no traffic coming, or what traffic there is coming is far enough away that you can get safely out of the way before they reach the intersection, you keep going. If you cannot go without impeding traffic, because they are already in the intersection, or too close to the intersection, you slow down or stop as necessary to let them pass, and then go when clear.
They'll often post yield signs back a ways before the acceleration lane must merge. Example here: goo.gl/maps/r9NFAqk7rew
The problem is that people will often go all the way to the end of the acceleration lane and then stop to yield to traffic if they can't find a safe opening. If you can't find a safe gap, you are meant to yield at the sign, not at the end of the lane; this way, you leave yourself enough room to get up to speed when a gap appears. Although I can't remember the last time traffic was so heavy that I could not find a gap big enough to merge into. Usually, if it's that heavy, traffic on the highway is already stop-and-go, and people in the right lane just take turns with people coming in from the acceleration lane.
Hi melinuxf00l - Thank you for your reply. Yes, as you stated, traffic is never so congested that you can't find a gap into which you can merge. Those yield signs on the on-ramps to freeways cause a lot of confusion for drivers. I believe that these are there to indicate to drivers that the onus of responsibility is on the merging driver. However, saying that, driving is a social activity, and all road users bear a responsibility to prevent crashes and operate defensively. If there is anything further we can do, drop us a note. Always happy to help. All the best, Cheers Rick
what if there is a ramp meter with red or yellow traffic lights on the ramp
Where I live, depending on which highway entrance, drivers can be very selfish when trying to merge into the highway and that's part of the reason why i get so scared driving on the highway. I know stopping isn't an option in most cases but what if some car just going super fast so that way you won't be able to merge? I dont want to get rear-ended by that car, especially since I drive a fairly small car.
Hi Dana - Thank you for your comment and query. If the vehicle is going super fast, then let off the throttle and merge in behind the vehicle. One of the key strategies for merging is to match the speed of the flow of traffic on the highway, then adjust your speed to "meet the gap" that you've identified as you're coming out on the on-ramp and acceleration lane. Stopping on an acceleration is simply NOT an option! If there is anything further we can do, drop us a note. Always happy to help. All the best, Cheers Rick
I fail my G today to many mistakes especially getting on n off the ramp as well as merging to the left n right
Hi Maureen Springer - Thank you for your for letting us know. Sorry to hear about your unsuccessful attempt. We're confident that you'll get your license on the next attempt. If there is anything further we can do, drop us a note. Always happy to help. All the best, Cheers PS - the exercises in this video will improve your overall driving: ruclips.net/video/dJpMKkwEhxI/видео.html
I've been in situations were the traffic was bumper to bumper and the only choice I had was to stop. I've lived in Chicago, Baltimore, San Diego, and a few other cities.
I now live in an area that is not very populated but have been in situations were tractor trailers were in the traveling lane and others in the passing lane.
I've been driving for over 37 years, and have situations were you can not simply merge. People are selfish and will run over you if you try to get onto the highway. People around here are not very ... friendly, nice, or even decent human beings.
I'm not saying your wrong .. but ... when you are around people that think they are more important than anyone else... you could die.
Hi James Lester - Thank you for your explanation my friend. Next time you're in that situation try leaving your signal on and moving your vehicle to the left side of the lane. See if that works for your my friend. All the best, Cheers Rick
The only time I cant fully accelerate on a merge lane is when is curves around. I can't do 60 around curves. Imma flip my suv, so by the time the merge lane straightens out, youre practically on the freeway already forced to merge over quickly. But its not too big of a deal, I get speed hella quick once I get around the curve. Other than that, I merge pretty smoothly.
Hi Chris McCann - Thank you for your comment. If the road is curing my friend, you're still on the on-ramp. Almost all acceleration ramps that I know are straight. You'll know the acceleration lane because there will be continuity lines on your left: ruclips.net/video/dYUxQPrpCsY/видео.html All the best, Cheers Rick
@@smartdrivetest ok thats what I meant but by the the time you get to the acceleration ramp, its so short, Im trying to say that its not a normal acceleration ramp, its one of those lanes where you get on and you also get off as well. So while youre merging, theres people trying to get off as well. I wish I could describe it better but yeah. Anyways, I still get speed fairly quick once im on, you just got switch over fast because 2 seconds later if you dont, youre pretty much going to exit the ramp just as quick as you got on the ramp. It's like the acceleration ramp is also where you decelerate when getting off. If that makes sense
Hi Chris McCann - Apologies for the late response. I know exactly what you're referring to my friend. They are phasing those goofy thing out, which is great thing. Those combined on- off-ramps were and are terrible! All the best, Cheers Rick
There was one time I was merging on to the freeway and there was a huge semi that didn’t switch lanes or let me merge so I literally had to stop because if I didn’t i would’ve hit him since he was in my way Thank fully the car behind me was very aware of the semi not moving. it was scary 😳
Hi gardenia Campos - Thank you for your comment. And we're happy to hear you're okay. You need to get up to speed faster and get in front of the vehicle on the highway, or get behind - one or the other. Don't expect the vehicles to move over or slow, but find the gap and get your speed so that you can get into that gap. Some times that means putting the "pedal to the metal" and getting going in front of the vehicle there on the road. If there is anything further we can do, drop us a note. Always happy to help. All the best, Cheers Rick
Thank you my husband is a semi truck driver and he told me the same thing 😆 it was only my second time driving on the freeway so yup I’ve gotten much better at it now still a little scary but I know I’ll get it over it with practice 😊👍🏻 your videos are very helpful 🙌🏻👍🏻
Hi gardenia Campos - Thank you for your response. And you're so right - at the outset, merging onto the highway is intimidating. But with a bit of practice you're going to think it's great fun getting out there and flooring that gas pedal. If there is anything further we can do, drop us a note. Always happy to help. All the best, Cheers Rick
@@smartdrivetest I had this same problem BUT i had NO control over the situation, the car infront of me was merging at 20 MPH, by the time i got to the end of the on ramp i was screwed, there was a semi behind me coming very fast and did not move over, i had to finally jist hop on and pray to god he did not hit me, which he moved just inches away from my bumper, and then honked at me. The sad part is had i wrecked and made it out alive, i would have paid the price for that idiot infront of me merging dangerously slow.
I wish where I drive the road is like this.Vehicles come really fast and there is hardly any space to merge into.its savage
Can I just ask something here... I was a little confused the other day because as I was about to merge on highway 99 southbound after exiting highway 91, there was a huge bus in the (bus?) lane that also becomes my merging lane. So because nobody ever explained this to me I kept going and almost hit the bus but swerved *extremely ashamed* but I asked my brother later and he said, there is a sign that says YIELD TO BUSES when light is flashing, was the light flashing? I had never noticed this sign before. The next time it happened there was a truck in front of me that STOPPED before the merge to let the bus pass and I realized OH, so we are supposed to STOP before the merge if there is a bus?! Please explain this as there are instances where you do need to stop! I'm trying to google more information but I don't see a proper explanation on appropriate action. I'm always anxious when merging at that spot.
Hi Esther Batycki - Thank you for your comment and tremendously helpful information. Where in the world are you, and I'll look this up on Google? Also, I'm going to post this in the public forum to illustrate the importance of reading road signs. . If there is anything further we can do, drop us a note. Always happy to help. All the best my friend, Cheers Rick
Richmond, BC :) type into Google Maps 49.1722329,-123.0899839 It's embarrassing that now that I see Google Street View I notice tons of signs >.< when I'm so nervous merging I am so focused on checking how busy the highway is (looking for a potential gap) that I didn't take a moment to read and interpret any signs coming up
Hi Esther Batycki - Thank you for your comment and providing this valuable information. I can't say that I've ever encountered that sign either, so this is pertinent for all smart drivers - especially those driving around the Vancouver, BC, Canada area. As you stated, you must give the right-of-way to buses approaching from the left when the lights are flashing. However, like you and other smart drivers I suspect, there's so much going on with the merging that you did pay heed to the sign. Believe me, you're not alone in missing road signs. Unfortunately, many drivers don't read, interpret, and digest road sign information. If there is anything further we can do, drop us a note. Always happy to help. All the best, Cheers Rick
Reply ·
What happens if no one lets you merge and traffic very heavy without gaps?
First of all thank you for attempting to advise and teach others about driving but one glaring thing I couldn't help but notice is the huge crack in your windshield. This is something that drivers should be cautioned not to allow to remain as a part of their windshield as these cracks will enlarge and should be either repaired or have the windshield replaced. Your instructions are wonderful but I would offer the suggestion to advise people who have these cracks in their windshields, even small ones, to have them taken care of immediately rather than allowing them to exist and be a part of your driving.
Hi Gary K - Thank you for your comment. You are correct my friend as to the crack in the windshield. Since the making of this video, it has been replaced my friend. See this video: ruclips.net/video/uOQHvUav8P8/видео.html All the best, Cheers Rick
What about when a yield sign is there b4 entering the highway? Do you stop??
Hi rose macdonald - Thank you for your comment and query. No you don't stop. Those yield signs are a bit of an oddity in the United States, but no you don't stop. It is the same procedure. Now that I think of it, I believe they put those signs there to wake up the driver to the fact that she or he is merging into a high speed traffic. If there is anything further we can do, drop us a note. Always happy to help. All the best, Cheers Rick
Smart Drive Test
Thank you for that reply!! One more question. Is it ever ok to pass a truck on the right? I have an issue on what exactly to do when i am near one.
Smart Drive Test www.indeonline.com/x1966199956/YOUR-VIEWS-When-merging-onto-highway-drivers-must-honor-yield-sign
I live in Ohio and now more then ever I'm confused about getting on the highway. I've driven on the highway many times. But it seems to me that the way you're telling it, the people on the highway should yield for those who are coming onto the highway, even though the ones that are coming on have the yield sign. Did I read you right? You believe that the yield signs are there to wake the driver up to the fact that they are merging into a high speed of traffic ??? That's not what I was taught yield means.
So, can I stop on the acceleration lane or not?
Apologies for the late response. Thank you for your comment. And no you cannot - it is both unpredictable and dangerous. You risk being rear-ended. See this video: ruclips.net/video/LzgcJbBmAfc/видео.html As you're approaching from the on-ramp, begin to accelerate and match the speed of the traffic flow. As well, pick your gap. And most important, signal early to get the attention of drivers on the highway. Signal early, match the speed, and aim for the "gap" to merge onto the highway, interstate, or motorway. If there is anything further we can do, drop us a note. Always happy to help. All the best, Cheers Rick
I am preparing for the knowledge test: I have one query- Truck driver from right wants to merge to the highway with his left indication signal on, while the cab that I am travelling also turned on right indication signal to turn right met at the junction simultaneously. This looks scary as both the vehicle may collide. But luckily the cab driver (I am travelling) speed up a bit and took right lane but the blind spotted car again coming behind nearly hit us. My question is, if like this situation arises, what will be the best option, shall i accelerate and pass to my lane?
Hi varekan keishing - Apologies for the late response. Thank you for your comment. When in doubt, give the right-of-way. I'm not completely clear about the traffic situation you explained - is it in the video and if so, could you send me the time in the video and I'll have a look. If there is anything further we can do, drop us a note. Always happy to help. All the best, Cheers Rick
Thanks for the reply sir. Iam telling about in real situation. i think "give the right-of-way" will be the best option as you advised.
Hi varekan keishing - thank you for your reply. Yes, some times when you're merging onto the highway or freeway, if you just adjust your speed a little bit, that will help you to merge into the space between the vehicles. If there is anything further we can do, drop us a note. Always happy to help. All the best, Cheers Rick
I thought his speedometer was in MPH for a good 30 secs until he said KM/H LOL I was like "DAMN HES FLYING"
Washington State says the person on the freeway has the right of way and is not required or expected to slow down to allow people to merge.
Hi Tiffany - thank you for your comment. This comes down to one of my favourite teaching sayings: " You can be right, or you can be dead right." In other words, just because you have the right-of-way doesn't mean that you can plow forward. As well, the right-of-way is never taken, it is always given, so unless you want to risk a crash drivers on the freeway will give the right-of-way to merging vehicles by either moving over and changing lanes or slowing slightly. When drivers are belligerent and don't help others, it's simply unfortunate. If there is anything further we can do, drop us a note. Always happy to help. All the best, Cheers Rick
That’s all good but the acceleration lanes are never that big
Hi David Perla - Thank you for your comment. Use the on ramp leading out to the acceleration lane and "MASH THAT GAS" my friend! If there is anything further we can do, drop us a note. Always happy to help. All the best, Cheers Rick
I would be interested to know if in Canada it’s all across the bord or province to province. Here I. The states it varies from state to state. In California no body has the right of way, Illinois if there is an accident they will rule both at fault, in Washington state you have to help and apparently if you do t the trooper will cite you for an illegal block, in Pennsylvania the thru trafffic has the right of way the merging traffic has all responsibility to make sure that it is safe. The thru traffic has no responsibility to help. There is a quirk though in busy parts of the state like in Philadelphia or the Schulkyl expressway which connects Mid County to Philadelphia if you back off or switch lanes and the trooper sees you they will pull you over and cite you for yielding to the car you are supposed to just keep going and if they merge into you they are at fault but in a more rural part of the state like 380 the expressway that connects tannesville to Scranton or like on I-80 near Danville then they won’t pull you over.
Hi Micah Smith - Thank you for your comment. And you are making driving too complicated my friend. Driving is driving and if there are too many differences there would be many more crashes and traffic violations than there are already. The differences between jurisdictions are minor. If there is anything further we can do, drop us a note. Always happy to help. All the best, Cheers Rick
I don’t understand how I was making it difficult I was just reporting how in the States it’s different from as you say jurisdiction. The question I was asking is how is the merging rules in Canada meaning do they vary like in the States or is it the same across the board in Canada? That’s all I am asking
Hi Micah Smith - Thank you for your response. I'll put it this way for your. Traffic laws no more prevent traffic crashes no more than criminal law stamps out crime. The point of merging is that there are the rules and laws of driving, and then there is social driving. In social driving, drivers make mistakes all the time. My point is this: do you have strategies and techniques in place that are going to prevent you from being involved in a crash? Or are you going to simply adhere to the "supposed" different rules that govern driving. In the end--regardless of the rules--our job is to come home safely at the end of the day. And yes, to answer your question, there are slight differences in the road rules between provinces. All the best, Cheers Rick
hahahahah you're committed
You are indeed my friend! Drop us a note if we can help further. All the best, Cheers Rick
8:37 Wow, can't believe they allow cycling on a 100 km/h highway! That takes some guts to ride there...
Hi R.D. Dragon - there's a big paved shoulder on that highways, so riding a bicycle along there isn't too bad. There are some roads here in British Columbia's interior that are quite dodgy for a bicycle, but riders still do it. All the best, Cheers Rick
On top of that,they should cycling on the other shoulder/side of road where the traffic is on *opposite flow* of their intended cycling direction. Since,while cycling in opposite direction of traffic flow, obviously, in cycling lane it reduces chance of accident by a careless driver. While you are cycling with flow you have no idea who is about to hit you while texting on phone as you have no rear view.Just saying my opinion
It's a pet peeve of mine that you have to cycle WITH the flow of traffic in Missouri, like that's going to somehow prevent you from getting flattened by a massive piece of rolling steel that you didn't see veering into you because it was behind you and you couldn't react as you didn't, um, "see" it. It's a bigger pet peeve that if you ignore this stupid rule, you could potentially have derogatory points added to your "driving" record. Like really man? If you're riding a bike there's probably a reason you're not driving a car instead.
Personally I wouldn't ride a bicycle on a freeway even if it was legal. When I was younger I had a bicycle malfunction throw me into the road (even though I rode on the sidewalk and there were no bike lanes, this was in Arizona, but I think they have dumb bicycle laws just the same as Missouri and I technically should have been riding in traffic for some idiotic reason, but as I don't consider myself too big of an idiot I ignored them). I immediately sprang up out of traffic, but if it had been going really fast or if someone was too close I might not be telling this story or may be telling it from a wheelchair.
SO many drivers I encounter as a motorcoach driver use yields as merge and stop at merge lanes! Acceleration lane grief!!
Hi Paul - thank you for your comment. Yes, it is frustrating--and potentially dangerous--when drivers stop on acceleration lanes. Especially, for those like yourself, that are driving a larger vehicle and need to get going and use all of the acceleration lane to do that. Unfortunately, I don't think this video will solve that issue. All the best, Cheers Rick
With so many merging lane distances involved, there has to be flexibility! Some are short and the driver merging must start looking very early!!! Turn signal EARLY help out. EXPECTING drivers on the road to yield IS NOT correct!! But to just barge in, as 89% if drivers do, is dangerous. Most do not signal!! The next culprit is the tailgater on the acceleration lane. But in US state DOT do a horrible job as to training drivers.
Hi Ramon Cardona - Thank you for your comment. And you are correct my friend - look early, signal early and know that the onus of responsibility is on the merging driver. If there is anything further we can do, drop us a note. Always happy to help. All the best, Cheers Rick
So I have my road test tomorrow and my dad is making me drive to the DMV. I have to drive on the highway then go on another one. I hate driving on the highway because I'm always driving on the shoulder and I never know when yo switch lanes. I've nearly gotten into 2 accidents. What can I do to help me relax and how do I merge and know when I'm driving in the shoulder?
Hi Alejandro Cardenas - thanks for your comment and query. Where are you in the world and what highways are you driving on to get to the DMV? All the best, Cheers Rick
Hi Rick, I appreciate you giving me some advice. I live in New Jersey and I will be taking route 4 then route 17. I love in Bergenfield NJ
Hi Alejandro Cardenas - thanks for the information. Alright, first technique is to look farther down the road when driving on highways and freeways. This observation will do 2 things: first, it will allow you to be more proactive in your decision making, and second it will centre the vehicle in the lane. As for merging, do some route planning on Google maps so that you know exactly where you're going. That way you wont' get caught out when you approach your exit. For example, if you're driving west on Hwy 4 and are going to turn north on Hwy 17, know that as soon as you pass the Spring Valley Rd exit, you have to move over to the right because the next exit is Hwy 17 north. Take a bit of time to study Google maps, write out your route, and know exactly which roads you are going to take and where your turn are located. Good route planning in combination with looking down the road will help you to drive on highways better. On freeways and the Garden State Tollways you can use mile markers to help navigate. See: ruclips.net/video/K-eVPH7xszA/видео.html Good luck on your road test. Be sure to let us know how it turns out. If there is anything further we can do, drop us a note. All the best, Cheers Rick
Smart Drive Test ok, thanks for the advice Rick. Happy Holidays and I'll let you guys know how it went!
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I don't stop on an acceleration lane when merging. I always get my vehicle up to speed